Disaster Deferred: How New Science Is Changing Our View of Earthquake Hazards in the Midwest

A geologist takes readers inside contemporary earthquake research to offer a new account of the Midwest's legendary New Madrid fault—"an exceptional read" (Choice).

In the winter of 1811-12, a series of large earthquakes in the New Madrid seismic zone shook the Midwest. These historic geological events are often incorrectly described as the biggest ever to hit the United States. Today the federal government ranks the earthquake hazard in the Midwest as high as California's and is pressuring communities to undertake expensive preparations for disaster.

In Disaster Deferred, geologist Seth Stein revisits these earthquakes, the legends that have grown around them, and the predictions of doom that have followed in their wake. He details how limited scientific knowledge, bureaucratic instincts, and the media's love of a good story have exaggerated these hazards. Debunking the hype, Stein explains how contemporary seismological techniques—including the use of GPS—painting a very different-and much less frightening-picture of the future. Using new geological ideas and data, he calls for a more sensible, less costly policy.

"An essential book for policy makers, economists, and notably educators."—Choice

© 2010 Columbia University Press (Ebook): 9780231522410

Release date

Ebook: 15 October 2010